How to Have the Best North Carolina Staycation
Sometimes a short break from your regular routine is all you need to feel refreshed. Planning a “staycation” is the perfect way to do so! You won’t have to spend a lot of time or money on transportation, meaning you’ll have more time to relax and more room in your budget for activities. That’s a win-win in our book!
If you’re lucky enough to call North Carolina home, an Asheville staycation is the perfect way to hit the reset button. Use our three-day Asheville itinerary below to start planning your trip. Or, if you’d like to create your own itinerary, take a look at our free Vacation Guide.
Asheville Trip Itinerary
Visit breweries, listen to live music, sample mouth-watering southern cuisine, and enjoy the fresh mountain air with our Asheville trip itinerary! This is the perfect way to have a fun and relaxing North Carolina staycation.
- Day One: Brewery hop, explore the River Arts District and quirky shops downtown, grab dinner at Cúrate, and catch a live show at The Orange Peel.
- Day Two: Start with a delicious breakfast at The Esmeralda then head to the Biltmore. Afterward, relax on the lawn at New Belgium Brewing Company then grab a table at Buxton Hall Barbecue. (Save room for dessert at the French Broad Chocolate Lounge!)
- Day Three: Hike at Chimney Rock State Park to see the stunning Hickory Nut Falls. Then, treat yourself to an afternoon at the spa and cozy movie night!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ASHEVILLE
How many days do you need in Asheville NC?
You should plan at least three days for a trip to Asheville, North Carolina. That will give you enough time to explore the town, visit a handful of breweries, spend time outdoors, and eat at the best restaurants without feeling rushed.
When should I visit Asheville?
Asheville is wonderful any time of year! Summertime is perfect if you’re interested in hiking and being outdoors. The fall brings the most beautiful colors with the changing of the leaves. Winter is a festive and magical time in Western North Carolina. And spring will be chilly but much less crowded.
Do you need a car in Asheville?
Downtown Asheville is very walkable, but it’s recommended to have a car if you’re interested in visiting any nearby state parks, touring the Biltmore, or driving the Blue Ridge Parkway. You may also prefer to stay outside of downtown in which case you’d need a car to drive into town.
For more ideas for your Asheville vacation, check out these blogs:
Complete Your Trip at The Esmeralda Inn!
The Esmeralda Inn in Chimney Rock is one of the best places to stay near Asheville. Our complimentary hot breakfast is the perfect way to start your day and our onsite spa is the best way to unwind after hiking or exploring the town.
With a fireplace, beautiful mountain views, and complimentary 24-hour coffee, The Esmeralda provides the perfect home base for a North Carolina staycation. Our guest rooms are well-equipped with extraordinarily comfortable beds, luxurious linens, and top-notch toiletries.